Can alcoholic liver disease heal on its own?
Jul 19, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, if alcoholic liver disease is in its early stage and not severe, it can heal on its own simply through abstinence from alcohol. However, if the alcoholic liver disease is very severe and has progressed to liver failure, in addition to stopping alcohol consumption, appropriate additional treatment measures should be implemented, such as nutritional support therapy for severe alcoholic liver disease.
In general, whether alcoholic liver disease can heal on its own depends on the specific stage of the condition. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The details are as follows:
1. Possible
In the early stage of alcoholic fatty liver (i.e., initial alcoholic liver disease), if the patient stops drinking alcohol immediately and adjusts their diet, increases physical activity, and maintains a healthy lifestyle, the liver has a certain self-repair capacity. Some patients may achieve spontaneous recovery and restoration of normal liver function.
2. Not possible
When alcoholic liver disease progresses to alcoholic hepatitis or alcoholic cirrhosis, significant inflammatory responses or structural changes in liver tissue have already occurred. At this point, complete self-healing through the body's natural recovery ability is unlikely.
To avoid unnecessary harm to the body, it is recommended to take medications such as polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, or hepatoprotective tablets under the guidance of a qualified physician. Additionally, engaging in regular physical exercise to improve overall health can help enhance the liver’s metabolic and self-repair capabilities.
